Three Key Things to Watch in Tonight’s Game: Seattle Kraken vs. Vegas Golden Knights Preview

Tonight, the Seattle Kraken face off against the Vegas Golden Knights in what feels like a critical early-season matchup for the home team. The Kraken have been in a slump lately, dropping four straight games, all in tough, decisive fashion. Meanwhile, Vegas is showing why they’re perennial contenders, coming in hot with a blistering 9-3-1 start to the season. With the Kraken back home at Climate Pledge Arena, fans will be hoping for a spark to turn the tide.

Here’s what to watch for in tonight’s clash:

1. Can Joey Daccord Continue His Strong Play Against a Potent Vegas Offense?

One of the most exciting storylines going into tonight’s game is Joey Daccord’s return to the net against a team he’s already proven he can handle: the Vegas Golden Knights. Daccord has been one of the most consistent performers for the Kraken this season, posting a solid 2.76 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage. His steady play has been a bright spot for Seattle, especially in the midst of the team’s recent struggles.

The last time Daccord faced the Golden Knights was in the Winter Classic, where he turned in a stellar performance, shutting out Vegas in a game that left a big impression. That kind of outing shows he can rise to the occasion against one of the league’s top offenses, and Kraken fans will be hoping he can recreate that magic tonight on home ice.

If Daccord can stay sharp and make the key saves, he has the ability to give Seattle a fighting chance against Vegas’s high-powered attack. A strong showing from Daccord could set the tone for the Kraken and might be the key to finally snapping their losing streak.

2. Who Will Step Up Offensively for the Kraken?

With the top line pulling their weight, the Kraken need a boost from their middle-six forwards to compete with Vegas’s scoring depth. While Jared McCann, Matty Beniers, and Brandon Montour have been productive, Seattle’s offense has been overly reliant on these players, putting pressure on the rest of the lineup to find ways to contribute.

One player the Kraken are eager to see step up is Shane Wright. Wright, a top prospect with tremendous potential, is still finding his footing in the NHL. The team and fans alike are waiting for that breakout performance that will show he’s becoming comfortable at the top level. Tonight’s matchup against the Golden Knights presents a perfect opportunity for Wright to assert himself, especially if he can use his skill and hockey IQ to create scoring chances.

In addition to Wright, other middle-six players like Andre Burakovsky and Oliver Bjorkstrand also need to shake off slow starts. Burakovsky, in particular, is still searching for his first goal after 14 games, and getting on the scoresheet could be exactly what he needs to regain confidence. If the Kraken can get more production from this group, it would not only relieve some of the pressure on the top line but also make Seattle a more balanced and dangerous team.

3. Chandler Stephenson Faces His Former Team for the First Time

Tonight’s game also marks Chandler Stephenson’s first matchup against his former team, the Vegas Golden Knights, since signing a major seven-year deal with the Kraken this offseason. Stephenson, who was an essential piece of Vegas’s lineup, has brought his playmaking skills to Seattle, where he’s already second on the team in assists and has been a consistent facilitator on offense. However, despite his contributions in setting up plays, he has only one goal so far this season.

Facing off against Vegas could be just the motivation Stephenson needs to find the back of the net tonight. His familiarity with the Golden Knights’ system might give him a slight advantage, and fans would love to see him step up with a big game against his former club. If Stephenson can continue to create opportunities—and maybe bury a shot or two—it could be the spark Seattle needs to snap their losing streak and energize the offense.

For Kraken fans, watching Stephenson take on his old teammates adds an extra layer of excitement. A goal tonight would be a perfect way for him to cap off his first matchup against Vegas and continue solidifying his impact in Seattle.

Prediction: Will Home Ice Give the Kraken the Edge?

The odds might not favor the Kraken tonight, but playing in front of their home fans could be just the lift they need to snap their losing streak. A big hit, an early goal, or a clutch save could ignite the crowd and give the Kraken the edge. There’s no denying that they’re the underdogs, but Seattle has shown they can rise to the occasion against top teams when they play with grit and confidence.

If Seattle’s defense can limit turnovers, if the offense can create some greasy, in-close chances, and if they can keep things physical against a relentless Vegas team, then the Kraken just might have a chance to pull off the upset.

As the puck drops tonight at Climate Pledge Arena, the Kraken will look to find their spark and turn the tide against a tough Vegas squad—will they rise to the challenge? Let’s find out.